Reviews (81)

demeter d · 20 December 2017 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

I have come here to read this again after reading Daw's post informing the Stories of Arda family of Nimandra's passing beyond the Circles of This World. I do not believe that I ever reviewed any of her stories. But I want to say something. This story wonderfully portrays our sense of the Hope that there is indeed, something to look forward to beyond this life. Much thanks to Nilmandra, Rohrrah, Daw, Fiondil, and every author and reviewer who has made this site the hopeful, light-filled place it has become. Warmest Holiday Light, Love and Blessings to you all; on this the 20th day, the twelveth month, the Year of our Lord 2017.

walkerskye · 24 June 2011 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

I've read this thru fully twice now and like it better even than before. the mystery builds to a very satisfying conclusion and leaves a door open to new adventures. I love the balance of choices: Arwen's, Elladan's and Elrohir's. thanks for a tale that has found a place on the shelf of my heart.

Tanis · 1 January 2011 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

I'm speechless ... I have no idea how to even begin to share how much this story moved me. I kept looking for Legolas and Gimli, but Elladan & Elrohir's plight had me riveted to the cursor as I read this. So mind-bendingly sad, but filled with such love and devotion and in the end, such breathtaking joy and fulfillment. A gorgeous tale from start to finish - like black velvet overlaid with exquisite white lace - a study in contrasts but blended to perfection.

Lady_Roisin · 1 September 2008 · Chapter 2: Into the West

You did it again! Amazing! I absolutely love the reunion, and the letters and portraits of Aragorn and Arwen's family, and Arwen's letters. That was a wonderful detail to add. I'm very impressed and touched by your writing. :-)

Lady_Roisin · 1 September 2008 · Chapter 1: The Passing of the Evenstar

Wow! I'm speechless! I remember when I first read The Tale of Aragorn and Arwen, and I remember how touching it was. You have done a beautiful job writing the passing of Arwen. I cried I swear! It wa that touching, the whole chapter was very well written, and lots of real emotion, color, and beauty.

Ellie · 26 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

What an incredible story! I was so not expecting the turn of events and the reasons for Elrohir's fading. Nice turn on the twin choice idea. Your tales are always most enjoyable! Well done!

obsidianj · 23 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

So, that was what was eating at Elrohir. Poor elf. I think the biggest gift the Valar could give Elrond and Celebrian is that this choosing business is ended. What a relief to the new parents. Having to go through the wrenching choice 3 times was bad enough. And there are no good choices. If, like Arwen, you choose mortality, you know you break your parents heart, since their choice was elven. If you are not sure what you want, like Elladan, you create another host of problems and will probably never be really content no matter what you choose. And Elrohir has a different problem. No matter what else he would like, his top priority is staying with Elladan, everything else can be arranged, which probably makes him another never quite content person. Although I got the impression he is quite happy in the end. I like the way you have the 3 children veer in 3 directions, one mortal, one a happy elf and one not quite content, kind of sitting on the fence in the middle. Although I think with the help of his parents and grandparents, he will lead a happy life in Aman.

obsidianj · 22 May 2008 · Chapter 2: Into the West

Oh, another daughter for Elrond and Celebrian. They can never replace Arwen, but a new child will give them a new beginning in Aman. And the mystery about Elrohir deepens. What did Elladan do to arouse the wrath of Ulmo?

obsidianj · 22 May 2008 · Chapter 1: The Passing of the Evenstar

What a powerful beginning to this story. For a moment I feared that Elladan would stay back. And what is with Elrohir? What grief is he harboring? I loved the explanation you gave for Arwen's lingering. And it had to break the heart of her brothers, Glorfindel and Celeborn to watch her in her grief, not ready to go on really living, not ready to die. Now on to the next chapter.

Tithenaru · 21 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

"My choice was never between the fate of the Firstborn and Secondborn. It has always been choosing to be with Elladan or choosing to spend the rest of time in the Halls of Mandos. For if we chose fates apart, he with Men and I with the Elves, then I would fade and spend the rest of time a disembodied spirit, for I knew I could never heal from that sundering.” " Yet I would not pressure Elladan by speaking of it to you. His choice had to be made freely. I would not have him regret his decision until the world ends.” “And yet, Elrohir, few will understand that the reverse is not also true, that in allowing Elladan to choose for you both you might have to live with regret until the world’s end.” I was sooo worried for a moment. Although I have always seen the twins as having conflicting desires, I have never believed them to be parted from one another. You have captured this so well and I have enjoyed every minute reading it. Now we have more to look forward to: Lindorie and Elrohir, Alassë, and Elladans task. Fantastic job

Tithenaru · 21 May 2008 · Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures

Elrohir and Elrond watching Elladan sailing with Earandil: such a fantastic image. What is wrong with Elrohir??? I feel so for Elrond and Celebrian, there is nothing worse than being unable to help your children. Oh this story is superbly executed, I can't wait for more.

perelleth · 20 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

Ah, smart author! This was a very intelligent device! All our attention focused on poor Elrojir, while the crux of it all was in Elladan! Masterfully woven, NIlmandra, it is good to guess how much you have enjoyed writing this. A very deep, and well thought and well woven tale! Congratulations! Now get well.

perelleth · 20 May 2008 · Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures

I was sure I had reviewed this properly, but the weekend turned out quite..difficult. I remember that I could only think of that blue sphere held in those fiery hands... and felt so jealous of Elladan! Earendil and Elwing are being so supportive here, it is a contrast with the sadness and worry besieging Elrond, torn between the upcoming birth and Elrohir's worrying state...and being forced to step back and watch....a very dificult moment for the peredhel, even in Valinor happiness is not yet fully ensured for him!

Redheredh · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

Now, that was a good happy ending! :D Although, it really might have gone the other way too! :o No, no, no, not from you! You would not do that to us. Thank goodness! Well, it was a little more tangled circumstances than I had thought, but Elwing did speak true when she said Elladan's choice lay before him. The twins did prove to be inseparable. *whew* All is still right with the world. And Elladan did have to plead his case to be allowed to make his own choice in his own time just as the Valar promised Elrond. Really, I still think the lady-love played a major role in their decision. If Lindorie had not loved Elrohir, Elladan might have chosen differently, despite having seen both sides of his nature. Good thing little lady Alasse was there too to pitch in! Excellent story. So, when do we get a peek at Elladan on his new job? :) Alasse grown up maybe? :D

pipinheart · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

Very well done... Very surprising that it was Elladan who chose for them both. That was hard one him. But Elrohir called himself weak, but he is not. To make his brother make the choice for him knowing he could not have the one he loved and the life he desired because of what choice Elladan could choose. Elrond was right he had an iron will. Loved it..

pipinheart · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures

Very nice... You have to feel for Elladan and Elrohir, both are taking journey's and both have support. You feel for Elrond, he so wants to her elrohir, but cannot. Great job

Alassiel · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

Greetings Nilmandra, It was a delight to read of Elrond's family and the healing of his sons. I am glad that both of them have found true peace. I wonder what Elladan's task will be? Perhaps you will feel inspired to tell us some day. As to your dedication: I absolutely agree. Though Aman is lovely, it is not the home of Men, and its beauty pales in comparison with what lies beyond Arda. To me, Finrod's words to Andreth speak to this: 'This then, I propound, was the errand of Men, not the followers, but the heirs and fulfillers of all: to heal the Marring of Arda, already foreshadowed before their devising; and to do more, as agents of the magnificence of Eru: to enlarge the Music and surpass the Vision of the World! Thank you for this lovely tale. Alassiel

meckinock · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

Aha, so all is made clear. I had chills when I read the part where they were standing before the thrones of the Valar. But when Elrohir and Elladan explained their plight, I was shocked. Wow. You can understand Elladan's resentment a little, that Elrohir's choice was to abide by his. What could he do but make the choice he knew Elrohir wanted? It was generous of the Valar to give them an extension on filing their return (did you happen to write this during tax season at all?), and very fortunate that Elladan got the Man stuff out of his system to the point where he'll be able to be happy in Valinor. From the way he looked after riding around the pathless voids with Earendil it didn't look too good. I'm sure the new baby sister helped. And Elrohir. How painful it must have been for him, loving it there and not wanting to leave, knowing that he'd be bound by Elladan's choice if the other chose to be counted among the Secondborn. And that if that happened, his parents' mended hearts would be broken all over again. I'm glad you found a way for this to all work out - happily ever after. For everyone. They deserve it.

Elfinabottle · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

Thank you, thank you, thank you! What an absolutely wonderful ending to this story. Whew! I feel like I'll be able to sleep tonight. Your writing here is beautiful, as always. I hope we can look forward to a story about what the Valar have in mind for Elladan. Yes?

Linda Hoyland · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

What a lovely ending.It is right the twins should stay together and not cause more heartbreak for their parents.What a dreadful choice to make! I am glad not be half Elven and have to make it!It was a lovely touch to give elrond and Celebrian a baby daughter.

meckinock · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures

Gotta tell ya, I'm stumped. Elladan, radiantly healthy and yet in turmoil. Elrohir, fading fast but glowing and peaceful. The Maiar know but they're not telling. Elrond at wit's end. I did enjoy it when Irmo told him he had to learn patience LOL. That just goes to show, you can never go home again. You might be king of the world, but to the folks back home, you'll always be that little Billy who dumped his diaper in the middle of the beauty shop while his mama was getting a perm. But I digress. Exquisitely painful and beautiful chapter, especially the trip to visit Grandpa and Grandma.

meckinock · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost

I don't know who I feel worse for - Elladan and Elrohir or their parents. Elrond summed it up perfectly - nobody expects there to be such pain and suffering in the Blessed Realm. To see it and not be able to understand it, much less do anything about it, must have been torture for him. And especially at a time that should have been full of joy in anticipation of the birth of their daughter. It was interesting to see Olorin; kind of jarring though - it would seem really strange to talk to a person you knew for a thousand years in one form, and all of a sudden he looks totally different. I was reassured when he showed up though, and seemed to be strongly *cough cough* urging Elrond to take Elrohir to Lorien. Go Gandalf.

Hotaru9 · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

It was brilliant. I've loved all your stories and I'm so glad to have finally read the end of your history lessons series.

Elflingimp · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

Thankyou so much for this beautiful story, my only curiosity is what Elledans job will be that the Valar appointed him? But maybe that's another story? Hopefully sometime. Hugs Deb

Gwynhyffar · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom

That was extremely fulfilling to read. Of course you made me cry again! You trickster you! I never suspected a second delay in their choice, and I couldn't for the life of me figure out why Elrohir wasn't getting better once Elladan (seemingly) chose the Eldar. Of course it all made sense when I realized what was really going on! Sneaky! .. but great!